According to local media reports, citing authorities, at least 23 miners were underground when the blast hit the facility. At least two mineworkers reportedly remain trapped, the CGTN broadcaster said.
Local emergency services have responded to the scene of the explosion. Authorities have launched an investigation into the tragedy, which reportedly occurred at around 1:30 a.m. local time.
Mine accidents are reportedly not rare in China. A roof collapse in Shaanxi province in January killed 21. The same number of miners died in Shandong province in October of last year, after a rock burst destroyed a tunnel.